Guy Talk panel explains Title IX investigations

QU Res-life, BSU, and Delta Tau Delta hosted a “Guy Talk” in the Hawks Nest. The discussion was aimed at talking about Title IX and what student’s rights are.

Director of Security and Safety Sam Lathrop offered some insight into what happens during a Title IX investigation.

“Most people assume that Title IX is only limited to sex related incidents. If you contribute to creating a hostile environment, it can also be claimed as Title IX,” Lathrop said.

He went on to mention that Quincy University averages two to three investigations a year.

Most campuses have a mandated Title IX coordinator.

In his closing remarks, Lathrop emphasized treating others with respect, no matter the gender.

Attendees received a copy of the student handbook pages regarding Title IX information.

Director of Human Resources and Title IX coordinator Tanya Moore spoke about what it means to have consent.

Legally, a person cannot give consent if they are intoxicated, under the influence, a minor, or have a mental disability.

Moore also explained that during an investigation, sometimes changes need to be made. The fact that the changes have been made does not mean a conclusion has been made.

“People really need to understand the impact of their actions and the fallout,” Moore said.

The list of consequences are numerous and carry a heavy weight, such as prison time, being placed on the registered sex offender list, job restrictions and more.

The panel opened up more as Moore asked the male audience what can they do better.

Some of the things the audience listed off were:

Having conversations with your partners about consent

Do not assume

It is perfectly okay to say no

Do not make decisions while being drunk or under the influence

C.J. Cunningham is a transfer student from Iowa and he shared his experience at a bigger school.

“Sexual assault is all too normal and common,” Cunningham said.

He also touched on the topic of the repercussions of being falsely accused.

“There’s not too much training on men being accosted. It can happen to anybody, male or female,” Cunningham said.

Cooper Harrison was the final speaker and his speech was the most heartfelt. His experience is of one who was accused and then started his road of redemption.

At a party with a few of his friends he blacked out and he wishes he stayed with the group.

“Sexual assault is damaging. False accusations carry a heavier burden than people believe. Everything can be stripped from you,” Harrison said.

The last words of advice to his fellow friends was to stop cat-calling women.

“Would you like it if someone cat-called your sister, your aunt, your mother, or your grandmother? Think about how women feel each day. They have to deal with men constantly trying to label them and that’s not right,”Harrison said.

In closing he reiterated the sentiments of the panel telling attendees to speak up.